How Can I Get Rid of Weeds Without Harming My Lawn?

The nemesis of any homeowner with a lawn is weeds. Weeds can pop up in the healthiest grass, harming the appearance of your lawn.

Probably the hardest part of maintaining your lawn is getting rid of the weeds. Using chemicals such as commercial weed killers can be effective, but you risk harming your lawn in the process. Plus, these chemicals can harm children and pets.

The good news is that there are natural ways to get rid of weeds. They require a little effort, but they are proven methods to eradicate weeds while keeping your lawn healthy. Here are some things you can try.

Pull Them

This seems obvious, but if you see a weed, you should just pull it. This should not be too difficult, as most weeds have shallow roots and are easy to get out of the ground. Wetting the ground first can make the process even easier.

Use Special Tools

If the weeds have roots that are too long (which is often the case for dandelions), you can use tools to dig into the ground. A trowel may work, or you can use special tools such as dandelion pullers.

Make Your Lawn Lush

Overpower the weeds by making your lawn as healthy as possible. Keeping your lawn lush and healthy will keep the weeds in your lawn at bay.  Focus on three main tasks: fertilizing, watering, and overseeding.

Some weeds thrive in poor, dry soil, which is why you need to adequately fertilize and water your grass. Overseeding your lawn is also recommended, as it keeps grass thick and denies weeds the space they need to grow.

Use Mulch

Applying mulch to bare spots can prevent weed seeds from germinating. Mulch also retains soil moisture and improves the soil’s organic content.

Mow Lawn Properly

Mowing regularly helps remove flower buds from weeds so they can’t bloom. Also, mow the grass high. Mow cool-season grasses when they become 4 to 6 inches tall and warm-season grasses when they are 3 to 4 inches tall.

Use Natural Solutions

There are several things you may already have around your home that can be used to kill weeds. Corn gluten meal is a natural herbicide that prevents weed seeds from germinating. Apply it in early spring before weeds have a chance to sprout. You can also use horticultural vinegar (20% acetic acid) for spot-treating weeds. Be careful, though, as it can damage grass if used excessively. Another tip is to use boiling water. Pouring boiling water directly on weeds in isolated areas (like cracks in pathways) can kill them.

Contact All Star Landscaping for Lawn Care & Maintenance Today

Taking care of your lawn is a must if you want to avoid weeds. When weeds do show up, you want to get rid of them quickly.

All Star Landscaping can help you with your lawn care and maintenance needs. We know how to maintain your yard beautifully throughout the year. Get help with your St. Louis County yard today. Get a quote today by calling (314) 568-6332 or filling out the online form.